The tao of Ringo
I was once asked in an interview—at a not-to-be-named agency—"Who's your favorite Beatle?"
It was an unexpected question. Some would say a dumb one. I would say a dumb one.
I was tempted to provide a snarky response (“Volkswagen”), but I played along. I picked Ringo.
A drummer myself, I know that playing well with others is a must-have behind the kit. As is understanding that simplicity is the hardest part. The notes you omit are as important as the ones you play.
Same goes for me as a pharma creative and strategist. I'm a co-conspirator first and foremost. Sometimes I set the tempo. Sometimes I get out of the way.
And my role in the band is to make the complicated awesomely simple. In the words of Charles Mingus, that is creativity.
Because I know it's not about the drummer; it's about the song.
Not surprisingly, Ringo hated solos. I dig.